Lymph Nodes - Swollen

Definition

Usually larger than the corresponding node on the other side of the body

Normal nodes are usually less than ½ inch (12 mm) across (size of pea or baked bean)

Causes

Swollen nodes with a viral infection are usually ½ to 1 inch (12 -25 mm) across.

Swollen nodes with a bacterial infection are usually over 1 inch (25 mm) across (size of a quarter).

The cervical (neck) nodes are most commonly involved because of the many respiratory infections that occur during childhood.

Swollen, tender node under the jawbone (mandible) can be caused by tooth decay and dental abcess

Elsewhere, localized nodes are usually reacting to local skin irritation or infection.

Return to School

Swollen lymph nodes alone are not contagious. If the swollen nodes are associated with a cold, sore throat or other infection, your child can return to school after the fever is gone and your child feels well enough to participate in normal activities.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. For more information, click here.

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

Parent Care at Home If

Mildly swollen lymph node and you don't think your child needs to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. For more information, click here.

Care Advice

Reassurance for Normal Nodes: If you have discovered a pea-sized or bean-sized node (smaller than ½ inch or 12 mm), this is a normal lymph node. Don't look for lymph nodes, because you can always find some (especially in the neck and groin).

Reassurance for Swollen Nodes from a Viral Infection: Viral throat infections and colds can cause lymph nodes in the neck to double in size. Slight enlargement and mild tenderness means the lymph node is fighting the infection and doing a good job.

Avoid Squeezing: Don't squeeze lymph nodes because it may keep them from shrinking back to normal size. Tell your child not to fidget with them.

Contagiousness: Swollen lymph nodes alone are not contagious. If the swollen nodes are associated with a cold, sore throat or other infection, your child can return to school after the fever is gone and your child feels well enough to participate in normal activities.

Expected Course: After the infection is gone, the nodes slowly return to normal size over 2 to 4 weeks. However, they won't ever completely disappear.

Call Your Doctor If:

Node enlarges to over 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size

Node over ½ inch (12 mm) persists over 1 month

Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. For more information, click here.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. For more information, click here.